The couple met and fell in love on the set of the 1995 film Too Much and have been dogged by rumours of marriage troubles for the past 12 months.

But in March she posted a picture of her Spanish actor husband relaxing on a boat with his arms in the air - suggesting they were still going strong.

Griffith is asking for child support, sole physical and joint legal custody of their 17-year-old daughter Stella as well as spousal support.

The pair said in a statement: "We have thoughtfully and consensually decided to finalise our almost 20 years marriage in a loving and friendly manner honoring and respecting each other, our family and friends and the beautiful time we have spent together."

Griffith has been married four times, including twice to doctor Don Johnson, with whom she has a daughter, actress Dakota, who is set to star in the upcoming film 50 Shades of Grey.